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Cleantech Startup Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Technical Recruiter

Alameda, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

... cleantech, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing to inform hiring decisions * Deliver a high ... Technical recruiting experience in a startup, in-house manufacturing environment or recruiting ...

Head of Manufacturing

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$180 - $220/hr

Company Description Critical Energy is an innovative, early-stage, venture-backed cleantech company ... Build and scale a high-performing technician and manufacturing team in a startup environment.

Cleantech Startup information

See California salary details

$18.8K

$68.1K

$112K

How much do cleantech startup jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for cleantech startup in California is $68,121.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,400.00 and $101,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cleantech startup?

A cleantech startup is a new or early-stage company focused on developing technologies, products, or services that help reduce environmental impact, improve energy efficiency, or promote sustainable resource use. These startups often work in sectors such as renewable energy, energy storage, water purification, waste management, and sustainable transportation. Their goal is to address environmental challenges while building commercially viable businesses. Cleantech startups are important drivers of innovation in the transition to a more sustainable and low-carbon economy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a cleantech startup, and why are they important?

To thrive in a cleantech startup, you need a solid background in environmental science, engineering, or business, often supported by relevant degrees or experience in sustainability. Familiarity with clean energy technologies, data analytics tools, and project management systems is typically required. Creative problem-solving, adaptability, and strong teamwork skills help individuals excel in the fast-evolving startup environment. These competencies drive innovation, facilitate rapid growth, and help startups effectively tackle pressing environmental challenges.

What are some common challenges faced when working at a cleantech startup, and how can job seekers prepare for them?

Working at a cleantech startup often means adapting to a fast-paced, dynamic environment where priorities can shift quickly as the company scales and innovates. Common challenges include limited resources, the need to wear multiple hats, and navigating regulatory complexities unique to clean technology. To succeed, job seekers should be comfortable with ambiguity, proactive in problem-solving, and passionate about sustainability. Building cross-functional communication skills and staying current with industry trends can also help you thrive in this collaborative setting.

What is the difference between Cleantech Startup vs Renewable Energy Technician?

AspectCleantech StartupRenewable Energy Technician
Required CredentialsRelevant degrees in engineering, environmental science, or business; certifications varyTechnical certifications, such as NABCEP or trade-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentInnovative, fast-paced startup setting, often in offices or labsFieldwork at renewable energy sites, installation, and maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageStartups focused on developing clean tech solutions across industriesCompanies installing and maintaining renewable energy systems

While both roles focus on clean energy, Cleantech Startup professionals typically work in innovative environments developing new technologies, whereas Renewable Energy Technicians focus on installing and maintaining existing renewable systems. The roles often require complementary skills but differ in daily tasks and work settings.

What are popular job titles related to Cleantech Startup jobs in California?

For Cleantech Startup jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Cleantech Startup jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cleantech Startup job openings:

Infographic showing various Cleantech Startup job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,121 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Senior Investment Associate

InforCapital, partnership

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$100 - $150/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

# Senior Investment AssociateApplied VenturesSenior AssociateVenture CapitalTechnologyFull-timeLocationSanta Clara, United StatesDate PostedJune 6, 2026Stay ahead of the marketGet instant notifications when new job openings matching "Venture Capital / Senior Associate jobs in Santa Clara, United States" are published.## About This RoleApplied Ventures, LLC is the venture capital arm of Applied Materials, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMAT), the global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display worldwide. For more than a decade, Applied Ventures has invested in startups driving innovation in areas such as smartphones, AR/VR, AI, autonomous vehicles, big data, life sciences, 3D printing, robotics, cleantech, and advanced materials.The firm is stage-agnostic and invests up to $100M per year across global markets. Applied Ventures has backed over 100 companies in 19 countries, giving team members exposure to a diverse portfolio and international ecosystem.Role OverviewThis is a full-time, on-site Senior Investment Associate role based in Santa Clara, CA. The Senior Investment Associate will source and evaluate early- to growth-stage startup opportunities aligned with Applied Ventures’ strategic focus areas, including semiconductors, advanced displays, and adjacent deep-tech domains.Responsibilities include:- Source and evaluate early- to growth-stage startup investment opportunities- Conduct market and competitive analyses in semiconductor, AI, and deep-tech sectors- Build financial models and perform due diligence on prospective investments- Prepare investment memos and recommendation materials for the investment committee- Work closely with portfolio companies on value creation initiatives including strategic planning and operational support- Collaborate with the broader Applied Materials organization to leverage corporate insightsApplied Ventures offers team members exposure to a diverse, international portfolio and the unique advantage of operating at the intersection of corporate R&D and venture investing.Apply for this Position #J-18808-Ljbffr